A BAND of Somerset majorettes has returned to entertain the community - after an 18-month break due to the pandemic.

The Wellington Majorettes performed at the Welly Welcome Weekend at the end of September, after just FOUR training sessions.

Sadly, the committee were unable to fit the members' uniforms in the usual fashion, due to Covid restrictions.

However, Carlos Alfaro, manager of The Corner House Hotel in Taunton, heard about the majorette’s uniform situation and offered to help the team with some sponsorship, meaning the committee could purchase all the younger members a showerproof jacket, which they wore with the team's plain white skirts and dresses.

Louise Brierley, troupe leader, said the group had kept focussed on fundraising during the break due to coronavirus.

Somerset County Gazette:
Sophie Claydon, Gracie-Mae Taylor, Amelia Cox, Sophie Claydon sport their new jackets

"Unfortunately, majorette training wasn’t possible to do online, however, we met weekly and engaged the team in a variety of activities, from bingos to quizzes to drawing on our heads but the most favorite activity was a scavenger hunt," she said.

"We tried to sing for members birthdays, easier said than done online and everyone gave each other ideas of films to watch, cakes to bake, and even places to walk.

"We held a couple of online fundraising events which were very well supported by the public.

"The committee has also been collecting clothes, shoes, bags and teddies throughout the year, which has raised a further £1,000, covering the cost of storage for all the equipment and uniforms, the trailer, and the insurance.

"We are truly grateful to everyone who has supported us during this time, especially to Carlos and The Corner House Hotel for their generous donation.

"The committee are continuing to collect the recyclable items, however, now the team needs to use their trailer, they are looking for storage space.

"If anyone has a small space to put a clothes recycling unit in order for the majorettes to continue raising funds, please email wellingtonmajorettes@outlook.com."

Next up, a representation from the team will take part in Wellington's Remembrance Parade next month, while it is hoped the whole team will be out on Saturday, November 27, for the final performance of a very short season at the switching on of the Christmas Lights in Wellington.

If anyone is interested in joining or booking Wellington Majorettes, they can contact Louise Brierley on 07796 933064 or email wellingtonmajorettes@outlook.com.